Here’s When Not To Use Ginger

Ginger is a flowering plant native to Asia which is definitely one of the healthiest and most beneficial plants in the world. Ginger is a member of the Zingiberaceae family, and has a rich nutritional profile that makes it a great remedy against a variety of ailments.

People have been using ginger as a folk remedy against digestive problems for a long time, but the root can help you with more than just that.

Ginger contains a variety of minerals, vitamins and enzymes that can treat various diseases and conditions. The huge number of enzymes it contains can assist the body in digestion and detoxify the organs, which will result in better overall health. However, although beneficial, ginger shouldn’t be used by people suffering from certain conditions.

Here’s when not to use ginger:

Blood disorders

Ginger can boost your blood flow and defeat anemia, diabetes, Raynaud’s disease and obesity, but will have a negative effect on your health if you’re suffering from hemophilia.

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder in which the blood loses the ability to clot, so even a minor injury increases the risk of bleeding to death. Ginger can interfere with certain hemophilia medications and cause hemorrhages, which is why it’s best to stay away from it in this case.

Blood pressure and diabetes meds

People on blood pressure or diabetes drugs should avoid ginger. The root can interfere with the action of beta-blockers, anticoagulants and insulin shots and will increase the blood thinning and reduce your blood pressure, so it’s best to stay away from it in this case.

Underweight people

People who need to gain weight should definitely avoid ginger. The root reduces food cravings and accelerates metabolism and fat burn, effectively promoting weight loss, which is the last thing you need if you’re underweight.

Pregnancy

Although there aren’t many studies to confirm it, ginger can induce contractions and premature labor. You can safely consume a small amount in order to prevent morning sickness, but anything more than that should be avoided. Experts suggest that the root is especially dangerous in the last trimester of pregnancy, so make sure to stay away from it if you’re pregnant.

The best alternatives for ginger

If you’re in any of these groups of people, you can replace ginger with cayenne pepper, paprika or sweet peppers in your meals. All three ingredients have similar effects to ginger, and can be used to prepare meals or detox drinks.